Direct answer
Proofreading is usually priced according to word count, complexity, manuscript condition and turnaround time. It should be a final quality-control stage rather than a substitute for structural or copyediting work.
Word count is only one factor
Tables, references, specialist terminology, inconsistent formatting and a compressed deadline can all increase the work required.
Proofreading should come late
It is most effective after substantive editing and once the text is close to final, because major rewrites can reintroduce errors.
Compare what the quote includes
Ask whether the proofreader checks only text or also headings, page numbers, contents pages, captions, references and layout consistency.
This page provides general publishing information, not legal, tax or financial advice. Service scope and third-party platform terms should be confirmed before purchase or publication.
